Acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo has criticized the suspended Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde, for attempting to condition his participation in the tribunal hearing on the reinstatement of his salary. Justice Temo described this stance as “unfair” and emphasized that Pryde, a highly qualified legal professional, has the capacity to represent himself. If he cannot afford legal counsel, he has the option to seek support through Legal Aid.
Justice Temo highlighted Pryde’s qualifications, noting his status as the top prosecutor in Fiji. However, he raised serious concerns regarding Pryde’s handling of superannuation payments. Specifically, he pointed out that since 2012, Pryde has improperly authorized himself over $288,000 in superannuation payments, which were not sanctioned by the Judicial Services Commission or the Attorney-General’s Office. Temo characterized this act as tantamount to theft, asserting that taxpayers are essentially being defrauded.
Furthermore, Justice Temo clarified that Pryde held responsibility over the finances of the DPP and had the final say on payments. He confirmed that, despite seeking approval from the JSC, no record indicating such approval exists for the payments made to Pryde since his appointment in 2012. The tribunal is currently examining allegations of misbehavior, and its recommendations could lead to Pryde’s removal from his position.
On February 28, 2023, the suspended DPP was observed engaged in an extended conversation with Sayed-Khaiyum, during a time when the Criminal Investigation Department was investigating him, raising further questions about the propriety of Pryde’s actions. Notably, as of December 4, 2023, Pryde was still receiving unauthorized payments of $1,000 per month as superannuation.
The tribunal will reconvene tomorrow at 10 am to continue addressing this significant case.
This situation underlines the importance of accountability in public office and reinforces that legal professionals must adhere to the principles of integrity. The ongoing tribunal proceedings symbolize a commitment to uphold justice and transparency within Fiji’s legal framework, promising a more responsible governance environment for the future.
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